EASA: devices in Flight Mode are fine by us at ‘all phases of flight’

I’ve long wondered about the logic behind device restrictions on flights. Many a time I’ve been asked to turn off my Kindle and/or iPod touch when coming in to land, and I’m often reminded of the Simpsons sketch in which Bart sends a flight into a nosedive when he hits the “Shutdown” button on his portable gaming thingy.

Well, it seems like such silliness will soon be a thing of the past. Hot on the heels of the recent FAA declaration, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) says it’ll soon be cool to use electronic devices during all phases of flight. Er, unless it’s a laptop. Those are still bad.

At present, the EASA allows the use of personal electronic devices (PEDs) including tablets, smartphones, e-readers and mp3 players when they’re set to Flight Mode (as if anyone checks), except during take-off and landing.

The EASA doesn’t say exactly what it’s been up to, but after some presumably thorough investigation, it’s decided that the restrictions nearer ground level are unnecessary.

“This is a major step in the process of expanding the freedom to use personal electronic devices on-board aircraft without compromise in safety,” purrs Patrick Ky, EASA Executive Director.

Interestingly, the EASA says specifically that the changes will be applicable to European airlines; it’s not clear what this all means for airlines based in other continents.

Presumably we’ll get some clarification when the full guidance is published by the end of the month.